Dublin band Inhaler cancel gig last minute

-Written by Niamh Fairhurst and Kit Roberts (Manchester Evening News)

Inhaler opening for Kings of Leon at Manchester AO Arena in 2022(Image: Kenny Brown | Manchester Evening News)

The band have been touring their new album Open Wide, but announced the cancellation of tonight's gig 

A Dublin rock band has cancelled a gig at the O2 Apollo this evening (Friday, February 21) due to 'illness'. Taking to social media, Inhaler said they were 'gutted' to be postponing the performance, and reassured fans they would be returning "very soon". 

Unfortunately the 2.21pm announcement, just hours before doors were set to open at 7pm, came too late for some fans, who have been queuing outside the venue as early as 9am for a good spot. Among them was Ruby Dry, who shared her disappointment at the news. 

"I've been waiting to watch them for so long," she said. "After constantly seeing clips of the tour, on TikTok specifically, I have been so excited!" 

She added: "If they are so sick they had to cancel it had to be a difficult decision." 

Ellie Parrington was also among those queuing for a good spot, and has been following the band since their first album. 

She said: "I hope they get better and play soon. I need to hear the new album live." 

The concert at the O2 had been one of the band's tour for their new album Open Wide which has seen them playing concerts in Birmingham, London, Brighton, and Glasgow. A second date had previously been announced in Manchester this evening due to high demand. 

Fans attending other performances on the tour have reportedly spoken online of a bug going round the concerts, calling it the "contagious Inhaler flu". 

Precise details of the illness affecting the group have not been released. 

In a statement, the band wrote: "We are absolutely gutted to have to announce that due to illness we've had to postpone tonight's show in Manchester. We were all so excited to be celebrating the end of a great tour with you all but we promise to come back to Manchester and play the show for you very soon. 

"The show is in the process of being rescheduled. Customers are advised to keep hold of their tickets, further information regarding the new date will be announced shortly."